The four cities vying for the 2016 Olympics released their detailed bid plans yesterday, touting compact venue layouts, lasting sporting legacies and financial security at a time of global economic turmoil.

More than ever, financial issues will be closely scrutinised, with each of the candidates trying to portray their multibillion-dollar projects as best placed to cope with the recession.

Chicago, Madrid, Tokyo and Rio de Janeiro unveiled their hefty bid documents after having submitted them earlier this week to the International Olympic Committee.

The documents, running up to 600 pages, provide details on 15 different criteria requested by the IOC, including plans for competition venues, infrastructure, environmental protection, accommodations, transportation, security and financing.

The IOC evaluation commission will study the bid files and visit the four cities, Chicago from April 4-7, Tokyo from April 16-19, Rio from April 29-May 2 and Madrid from May 5-8.